News
Thursday 12 January 2006
Imaginative preservation of historic heart of City campus
Two of the city’s best known landmarks could be transformed as part of an ambitious estate strategy being undertaken by Nottingham Trent University. Work to regenerate its Newton and Arkwright buildings – including the creation of state-of-the-art lecture theatres and learning and teaching spaces – could go ahead by the summer if the University’s planning application is approved.
The plans involve significant sympathetic refurbishment of the grade two listed buildings to maximise the usable floor space within them. A vibrant, glazed roof atrium between the two buildings will stand where the Newton Yard Car Park is currently situated. This central court, which will comprise a walk-round balcony, will act as a meeting point for staff and students and could include a restaurant. It will become the front door to the development, creating a new access from
The current Newton basement is being transformed to include state-of-the-art learning and teaching facilities, including lecture theatres and IT resources.
The University’s estates team has worked closely with planning and conservation specialists over the last 18 months – including Nottingham City Council, English Heritage, and other conservation groups – to produce plans that reflect Newton and Arkwright’s status as city landmarks. The appointed design team is led by Hopkins Architects, who are responsible for a range of other major projects, including the Norwich Cathedral Refectory and The Welcome Trust headquarters in London.
Nottingham Trent University’s Chief Financial and Operations Officer, Stephen Jackson, said:
“We have already made a significant investment in our estate portfolio to support the reputation the University has at both a national and international level. Both the Newton and Arkwright buildings are part of the ‘fabric’ of this city and we are keen to ensure that they continue to be used for the purpose for which they were built. The dramatically enhanced facilities will shape lives and society well into the 21st Century.”
If the plans are approved work is due to start in July 2006.
ENDS
Notes for editors:
The Arkwright and Newton buildings form the heart of Nottingham Trent University. The Arkwright Building was built for University College Nottingham in 1877-81. Subsequently the university moved to another site and the building became part of Nottingham and District Technical College. As part of the expansion of that college the Newton building was added in 1956-8. Both buildings are listed. The Arkwright Building was listed Grade II in 1972 and Newton Building was listed Grade II* in 1998.
Dave Rogers, Press Officer, on Tel: +44 (0)115 848 2650 or via email: dave.rogers@ntu.ac.uk
Or Therese Easom, Press and Media Relations Manager, on Tel: +44 (0)115 848 6589 or via email: therese.easom@ntu.ac.uk
